CalliSense: An Interactive Educational Tool for Process-based Learning in Chinese Calligraphy

TL;DR

CalliSense is an interactive educational tool designed to improve process-based learning in Chinese calligraphy by visualizing writing techniques, which significantly enhances teaching and learning effectiveness.

Contribution

The paper introduces a novel interactive tool that captures and visualizes calligraphy writing processes to facilitate better transmission of techniques.

Findings

The tool improves teaching efficiency.

Students better understand brush techniques.

System is effective in real workshops.

Abstract

Process-based learning is crucial for the transmission of intangible cultural heritage, especially in complex arts like Chinese calligraphy, where mastering techniques cannot be achieved by merely observing the final work. To explore the challenges faced in calligraphy heritage transmission, we conducted semi-structured interviews (N=8) as a formative study. Our findings indicate that the lack of calligraphy instructors and tools makes it difficult for students to master brush techniques, and teachers struggle to convey the intricate details and rhythm of brushwork. To address this, we collaborated with calligraphy instructors to develop an educational tool that integrates writing process capture and visualization, showcasing the writing rhythm, hand force, and brush posture. Through empirical studies conducted in multiple teaching workshops, we evaluated the system's effectiveness with teachers (N=4) and students (N=12). The results show that the tool significantly enhances teaching efficiency and aids learners in better understanding brush techniques.